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Devin Kirkwood was planning to visit at least seven football programs before the coronavirus outbreak forced the NCAA to suspend all in-person recruiting through April 15.
The Gardena (Calif.) Junipero Serra 2021 four-star defensive back had trips to Arizona (March 20), Arizona State (March 21) and Ohio State (April 19) on his docket along with expectations to see Utah and Michigan in April and Yale and Notre Dame in May.
Of course, living close to USC and UCLA, Kirkwood said he would’ve made it to a couple spring practices to see the Trojans and Bruins.
“It’s been extremely difficult, but I will make the best of this unexpected situation,” Kirkwood told WolverinesWire. “I had to cancel my scheduled trips.”
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Once high school athletes are allowed face-to-face visits again, whether that’s in June, July or August, Kirkwood will take an official visit to Michigan.
Seeing the Wolverines is a priority.
“In order to make an informed decision, I need to experience the culture and community,” Kirkwood said of U-M. “The first impression is a lasting impression for me.”
The 6-foot-3, 175-pound cornerback that could also slide over to safety has offers from Notre Dame, Michigan, USC, Arizona State, Arizona, BYU, Nevada, Oregon State, Utah, Utah State and San Jose State,
Kirkwood will release his top five schools Oct. 3 and make his commitment on early signing day in December 2020. He said no teams are a lock to make it in his top list, but many believe Notre Dame, Michigan and USC will continue in the close race for the top-rated prospect.
Michigan’s coaches, academic expectations and culture of the football program have impressed Kirkwood through the early stages of contact.
Kirkwood is ranked No. 21 nationally at the athlete spot and No. 34 in California, according to 247Sports.
Contact/Follow @WolverinesWire/ @EvanPetzold